Swiss Madison Voltaire 60" x 30" vs Swiss Madison Well Made Forever SM-AB546: Spec Comparison
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This comparison covers the swiss madison voltaire 60 x 30 vs well made forever sm ab546. Both tubs share a fiberglass reinforced acrylic build and a glossy white finish. They also both feature a built-in apron for streamlined installation. The main difference lies in their design and drain placement. One model offers an integrated armrest and right-hand drain, while the other provides a skirted base with a left-hand drain. You should review the specific dimensions and features to see which fits your bathroom layout.
Key differences
| Aspect | Swiss Madison Ivy 60 Inch Alcove Tub | Swiss Madison Voltaire 60" Skirted Soaking Tub |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Alcove Tub | Skirted Soaking Bathtub |
| Drain Location | Right-hand drain | Left-hand drain |
| Soaking Depth | 13 Inches | not listed |
| Weight | 71 pounds | 64 pounds |
| Height | 20.5 inches | 18 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Swiss Madison Ivy 60 Inch Alcove Tub if
- You need a right-hand drain configuration for your plumbing.
- You prefer a tub with an integrated armrest for added comfort.
- You want a deeper soak with a 13-inch soaking depth.
Choose Swiss Madison Voltaire 60" Skirted Soaking Tub if
- You require a left-hand drain location.
- You prefer a lighter tub that weighs only 64 pounds.
- You want a skirted base that conceals plumbing and supports.
Verdict: Choose the Well Made Forever SM-AB546 if you need a right-hand drain, a deeper soak, or an integrated armrest. Select the Voltaire model if your plumbing requires a left-hand drain or if you prefer a lighter, skirted design. Both options use durable fiberglass reinforced acrylic and simplify installation with their built-in aprons.
Voltaire vs Ivy Tub Specs
tub type
The Swiss Madison Voltaire is labeled a skirted soaking bathtub, designed for deeper immersion. The Swiss Madison Ivy is an alcove tub, which typically prioritizes space efficiency over deep soaking. Alcove designs often have shallower profiles to fit standard bathroom footprints. Soaking tubs generally offer more water volume for a relaxing bath experience. If you prefer a traditional alcove setup that hides plumbing behind a panel, the Ivy fits that category. If you want a dedicated soaking experience with a skirted base, the Voltaire is the better choice.
drain location
Drain placement is critical for your plumbing layout. The Swiss Madison Ivy features a right-hand drain by default. This means the drain is on the right side when you are facing the tub. The Swiss Madison Voltaire comes with a left-hand drain. This is on the opposite side. You must choose the drain side that matches your existing plumbing or your intended installation spot. Both brands offer variations, but these specific models have fixed positions. Check your floor plan carefully before deciding. Getting this wrong complicates the installation process significantly.
soaking depth
Water depth affects comfort during a bath. The Swiss Madison Ivy has a soaking depth of 13 inches. This is a standard depth for many alcove tubs. It provides adequate coverage for most users. The Swiss Madison Voltaire has a height of 18 inches. While the exact water depth is not listed, the taller shell suggests a deeper water capacity. Taller tubs often hold more water, allowing for a more immersive soak. If you value deep water coverage for your joints, the Voltaire likely offers more volume due to its increased height.
weight
Handling and floor support matter during installation. The Swiss Madison Ivy weighs 71 pounds. The Swiss Madison Voltaire weighs 64 pounds. The Ivy is slightly heavier by seven pounds. This difference is minor for professional installers but may matter for DIYers. Both tubs are made from fiberglass reinforced acrylic, which keeps them lightweight compared to cast iron. The weight difference will not impact durability. It only affects how you carry and position the tub during the initial setup phase.
armrests
Comfort features vary between the two models. The Swiss Madison Ivy includes an integrated armrest. This feature provides comfortable support for your arms while you relax. It adds stability and ease of use when getting in or out. The Swiss Madison Voltaire does not list an armrest in its features. It focuses on the skirted design and soaking capacity. If you prefer resting your arms while bathing, the Ivy offers a distinct advantage. If you do not use armrests, this difference is irrelevant to your decision.
Which Swiss Madison Soaking Tub Fits You
Deep soaking enthusiasts seeking immersion
The Ivy model offers a 13-inch soaking depth, allowing for deeper water coverage. Its alcove design with a built-in apron simplifies installation by avoiding the need for tile work. The integrated armrest provides comfortable support and stability while you relax. This configuration is ideal if you prioritize water volume and ergonomic comfort over compact footprint constraints.
Users needing ADA compliant height
The Voltaire stands at 18 inches high, which aligns with ADA height requirements for easier entry and exit. It features a skirted design that conceals plumbing for a cleaner look. The left-hand drain placement suits specific bathroom layouts. This lower profile is practical for accessibility needs while maintaining the durability of fiberglass reinforced acrylic construction.
Budget conscious buyers wanting lighter weight
The Voltaire weighs 64 pounds, making it lighter than the Ivy’s 71-pound unit. This reduced weight can simplify handling and installation logistics. Both tubs share the same durable fiberglass reinforced acrylic material and glossy white finish. Choosing this model offers a streamlined aesthetic with a built-in apron, ensuring a practical choice without compromising on basic structural integrity or visual appeal.
The products compared
Swiss Madison Ivy 60 Inch Alcove Tub
Best for: Right-hand drain alcove installations
- Type
- Alcove Tub
- Material
- Fiberglass reinforced acrylic
- Length
- 60 inches
- Drain Location
- Right-hand drain
- Soaking Depth
- 13 Inches
- Mount Type
- Built-in apron
View on Amazon: Swiss Madison Ivy 60 Inch Alcove Tub Affiliate link
This Swiss Madison SM-AB546 is a 60 x 30 inch fiberglass reinforced acrylic alcove tub. It features a built-in apron for easy installation and a right-hand drain. The soaking depth is 13 inches, and the unit weighs 71 pounds. It includes integrated armrests for support. This glossy white tub suits you if you want a straightforward, durable soaking option without complex installation needs.
Pros
- Fiberglass reinforced acrylic construction for durability
- Built-in apron streamlines installation
- Integrated armrests provide comfort and stability
- 13-inch soaking depth for relaxation
Cons
- Right-hand drain limits placement flexibility
- 13-inch soaking depth is shallow for deep soaking
- 71-pound weight requires adequate floor support
Good fit if
- You need a right-hand drain configuration
- You want a built-in apron to avoid tiling
- You prefer integrated armrests for support
Skip if
- You require a left-hand drain setup
- You need a soaking depth deeper than 13 inches
- You prefer a freestanding tub design
Verdict: Swiss Madison SM-AB546 60x30 Alcove Tub is a practical choice for right-hand drain installations where built-in apron convenience matters. It fits you if you value integrated armrests and straightforward alcove placement over deep soaking capacity.
Swiss Madison Voltaire 60" Skirted Soaking Tub
Best for: Accessible soaking with a pre-installed apron
- Type
- skirted soaking bathtub
- Material
- fiberglass reinforced acrylic
- Length
- 30 inches
- Drain Location
- left-hand drain
- Mount Type
- built-in apron
- Color
- White
View on Amazon: Swiss Madison Voltaire 60" Skirted Soaking Tub Affiliate link
This Swiss Madison Voltaire is a 60-inch by 30-inch skirted soaking tub made from fiberglass-reinforced acrylic. It features a built-in apron for easy installation and an ADA-height rim at 18 inches. The model includes a left-hand drain and weighs 64 pounds. You get a glossy white finish designed for durability. Faucets and drains are sold separately.
Pros
- Built-in apron streamlines installation without tiling
- Fiberglass-reinforced acrylic offers durable construction
- ADA-height 18-inch rim aids accessibility
- Left-hand drain configuration included
Cons
- Faucet and drain not included
- Only available in left-hand drain configuration
- Glossy white finish may show water spots
Good fit if
- You want a pre-installed apron to simplify installation
- You need an ADA-height tub for easier access
- You prefer a left-hand drain layout
Skip if
- You need a right-hand drain option
- You want a tub with included fixtures
- You prefer a non-skirted design
Verdict: Swiss Madison Voltaire 60x30 Soaking Tub suits bathrooms needing a durable, accessible soaking tub with a pre-installed apron. It fits left-hand drain setups perfectly but requires separate fixture purchases.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Swiss Madison Ivy 60 Inch Alcove Tub | Swiss Madison Voltaire 60" Skirted Soaking Tub |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Alcove Tub | skirted soaking bathtub |
| Material | Fiberglass reinforced acrylic | fiberglass reinforced acrylic |
| Length | 60 inches | 30 inches |
| Drain Location | Right-hand drain | left-hand drain |
| Soaking Depth | 13 Inches | not stated |
| Mount Type | Built-in apron | built-in apron |
| Color | White | White |
| Dimensions | 60 × 30 × 20.5 inches | 30 × 60 × 18 inches |
| Weight | 71 pounds | 64 pounds |
| Size | 60 in x 30 in | 60" x 30" |
| Model | SM-AB546 | SM-AP0547GW |
Frequently asked questions
Which Swiss Madison tub has a deeper soak, the Voltaire or the Ivy?
The Swiss Madison Ivy offers a deeper soak. It features a 13-inch soaking depth, which allows for more water coverage and immersion. The Voltaire has a height of 18 inches, but its design focuses on accessible soaking rather than maximum depth. If you prioritize deep water coverage for relaxation, the Ivy is the better choice.
Does the Swiss Madison Voltaire require a separate apron for installation?
No, the Voltaire does not require a separate apron. It comes with a pre-installed skirted apron that provides a streamlined look. This feature simplifies the installation process compared to tubs that need custom tiling or added panels. You get a finished appearance right out of the box without needing additional materials.
What is the weight difference between the Voltaire and the Ivy tubs?
The Swiss Madison Ivy is heavier than the Voltaire. The Ivy weighs 71 pounds, while the Voltaire weighs 64 pounds. This difference comes from their construction and design variations. You should ensure your floor can support the Ivy's weight, especially if it is an upper-story installation. Both are made from fiberglass reinforced acrylic.
Can the Swiss Madison Ivy tub be installed in a right-hand drain configuration?
Yes, the Swiss Madison Ivy is designed for right-hand drain installations. Its alcove style makes it practical for standard bathroom layouts where built-in apron convenience matters. This specific drain orientation helps you plan your plumbing setup more easily. It fits well if you value straightforward alcove placement over other features.
Is the Swiss Madison Voltaire suitable for left-hand drain setups?
Yes, the Voltaire is well-suited for left-hand drain setups. Its design aligns perfectly with this configuration, making installation straightforward. You do not need to worry about complex plumbing adjustments for the drain position. This makes it a practical choice if your bathroom plumbing is already set up on the left side.
Do both tubs have a glossy white finish?
Yes, both tubs feature a glossy white finish. This common trait ensures they match standard bathroom aesthetics and are easy to clean. The glossy surface resists stains and maintains a bright appearance over time. You can expect a consistent look whether you choose the Voltaire or the Ivy model.